When it comes to paving your driveway, there are a number of options available but for most homeowners, the top two choices tend to be block paving and gravel. Both of these options offer numerous benefits, but it can be difficult to know which is best suited to your home. There are several considerations which should be kept in mind when comparing the two which is why here we’ll be exploring whether block paving or gravel is better for your driveway and will ensure longevity for the years ahead.
Maintenance
One of the most notable benefits of paved driveways is the minimal maintenance that is required to keep them looking great year-round. Often all that is required is occasional weeding that may begin to surface through the joints between slabs. You may also want to jet wash your paving if it has recently been discoloured by inclement weather but often this isn’t necessary as block paving is very resilient.
With proper care and maintenance, gravel driveways can easily last a lifetime but it tends to be one of the more high maintenance types of driveway. Gravel requires you to frequently rake it to remove anything that shouldn’t be there i.e. leaves and other debris. The surface of the gravel will tend to become uneven which means you will have to continuously reseat your driveway. This also means that you will have to invest in an extra bag of gravel to refill holes and sparse areas over time. Most paving professionals would recommend that your driveway should be redone every year to keep it looking its best.
Durability
Block paving is one of the more durable paving options which makes it great for driveways and high traffic areas. As block paving consists of individual blocks on a bed of sand, the sand is able to act as an effective buffer for any movement above. The joints and sand combined hold the slabs in place and allow people and vehicles to move across without cracking.
Gravel alone is a very durable material and can easily handle people and cars travelling across it without breaking down. However, it can begin to look worn over time as the stones are kicked around and dislodged by vehicles. This again means that you will have to continuously ensure there is a sufficient layer of gravel on the ground to protect any vehicles on your drive.
Affordability
Block Paving is a more costly choice of paving for your driveway when you consider the cost of the paving itself and the installation fee. However, it is an option that will last for decades and requires very little maintenance whilst still looking great. As the blocks are separate from one another, if there is damage or cracks, the affected slab can be removed and replaced without causing damage to the surrounding paving. Block paving is an excellent investment for any home.
Gravel, on the other hand, is renowned for being a very low-cost option for driveways when compared to other materials. Those who have a large driveway can greatly benefit from the affordability of gravel and still have a driveway that looks great.
The Premium Paving Company has built its reputation and rapport with global contacts over the last 15 years to ensure we are the UK’s paving supplier of choice. If you are interested in finding out more about our block paving options for your driveway or would like to sample our natural stone paving range then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.
